In 2023, large trucks accounted for 10% of all vehicle miles traveled and 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes. An 18-wheeler crash can be caused by a wide range of factors, including driver fatigue or error, negligent hiring, road conditions, or even mechanical failures.
The question is, who is responsible when maintenance is ignored? Does liability fall to the driver, the company, or someone else entirely? Here’s everything you need to know, including how getting an 18-wheeler crash attorney involved can help you get to the bottom of what happened in a commercial truck accident.
Common Mechanical Failures in Commercial Trucks
Mechanical failures can be catastrophic. Some of the most common types include:
- Brakes failing
- Tire blowouts
- Steering and suspension problems
- Lighting and electrical failures
These failures rarely occur without warning. Most of them can be linked to inadequate inspections, ignored service recommendations, or a trucking company putting profit over safety.
How Skipped Inspections and Poor Maintenance Increase Crash Risks
Commercial trucks are required to undergo routine maintenance and pre-trip inspections. They are also periodically evaluated by the DOT and should receive scheduled repairs anytime a problem is uncovered. The problem is that the pre-trip inspections are typically conducted by drivers who are in a hurry.
Unfortunately, they may cut corners in their rush to get on the road and start making money. This can lead to missed issues, such as brake pads that are on the brink of needing replacement or faulty lights going undetected. Either way, it’s bad news for the driver, the truck, and anyone on the road near them when the equipment finally fails.
The Trucking Company’s Responsibility for Maintenance and Repair Compliance
Several different parties are responsible for keeping up with trucks. The trucking company is often the first party that investigators examine. They are required to:
- Perform regular inspections
- Maintain accurate maintenance logs
- Repair unsafe components before the truck returns to the road
If any deficiencies are noted, the carrier should take the vehicle out of service.
Potential Liability of Third-Party Contractors and Mechanics
Many trucking companies outsource some maintenance and repair work to keep their fleets on the road. If a third-party mechanic makes a mistake when performing repairs, they and their company could be held liable for a mechanical failure.
For example, if a mechanic over-tightened a bolt and it snapped, leading to an accident, they would share liability for the resulting crash.
Manufacturer Liability for Defective Parts
Sometimes, a crash is caused by a defective component. This means the part itself was flawed or had a material defect. When this happens, a truck may appear to be safe and pass all inspections, but it is really a ticking time bomb.
In these scenarios, manufacturers can be held responsible under product liability laws. The downside is that it can be incredibly difficult to identify product defects.
Importance of Reviewing Maintenance and Service Records
To build a strong case, your 18-wheeler crash lawyer will request and review several key documents, including:
- Maintenance logs
- Repair invoices
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
- FMCSA compliance records
- Driver hours-of-service logs
- Diagnostic records from the truck’s electronic control module
These records help prove whether the mechanical failure resulted from negligence, skipped inspections, or poor repair practices. Sometimes, multiple factors are at play.
Role of Federal and Texas Safety Regulations
Both federal and Texas rules determine how trucks must be inspected and maintained. When dealing with an 18-wheeler crash, both sets of rules come into play. That’s why it’s important to have the support of an experienced lawyer who can help get to the bottom of what happened and enforce your rights.
How an Attorney Can Secure and Analyze Maintenance-Related Evidence
After an accident in Texas, you should consult with an attorney. They can:
- Send preservation letters to secure maintenance logs
- Arrange an independent inspection of the truck
- Review all records and data
- Pursue compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering
An experienced 18-wheeler crash lawyer can also handle cases involving wrongful death.
FAQ
Can Mechanical Failures Still Be to Blame if the Truck Passed a Recent Inspection?
Yes. Even if a truck recently passed an inspection, it may still have hidden defects. Additionally, the person inspecting the vehicle may have cut corners when examining equipment, which could have contributed to the crash. For example, if a driver falsifies inspection logs, it could create additional liability and help strengthen your claim.
What Compensation Can I Seek if Mechanical Failure Caused the Crash?
You may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and long-term care needs.
How Quickly Should Evidence Be Collected After an 18-Wheeler Crash?
Mechanical evidence should be collected as soon as possible. You don’t want to run the risk of critical evidence being discarded, repaired, or otherwise lost.
An attorney can send a preservation letter to the trucking company, which legally obligates them to preserve the truck in its post-crash condition. Acting quickly ensures your legal team has access to unaltered evidence.
Seek Legal Support for Your 18-Wheeler Crash
An 18-wheeler crash lawyer from Ramsey Law Group can help you understand your rights and conduct a thorough investigation following your accident. One of our experienced team members will provide you with a free consultation and outline your options so you can choose the best path forward.
Are you ready to work with our team? Contact Ramsey Law Group to schedule a free consultation.